Everton have made former Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho their top target to replace Roberto Martinez.

In an ambitious move, Everton are hoping to seize the opportunity to snap up the three-time Premier League winner as Manchester United continue to stall over a potential move.

Keen to act on Mourinho’s desire to continue his managerial career in England and, as United continue to hesitate in whether or not to replace Louis van Gaal, Everton have made phone calls to Mourinho’s representatives.

Despite the interest, the Times claim that Mourinho’s close friends have revealed he is unlikely to accept the offer from Everton and instead wait until the end of the season to open talks with Ed Woodward.

Given the difficulty in recruiting Mourinho, Everton are likely to turn their attentions to Southampton’s Ronald Koeman whose contract is due to expire at the end of next season.